TECHNATION Statement on the Federal Government’s Pre-Budget AI Announcement
TECHNATION applauds the federal government for recognizing the importance of AI investment to build AI capacity in Canada, with $2.4 billion highlighted in the upcoming budget. These investments will bolster the economy, accelerate AI adoption, and support digital skills development for Canadians.
The initial investments through Canada’s Regional Development Agencies and in the Sectoral Workforce Solutions Program show that our government recognizes the pressing need and role it must play to enable Canadian businesses to adopt AI and build a robust digital and AI workforce.
In addition, the government’s inclusion of dedicated funds to enforce the Artificial Intelligence and Data Act (AIDA) demonstrates its commitment to creating a strong regulatory environment that protects Canadians and allows for business certainty as we continue to innovate and expand AI.
“A safe and reliable regulatory environment for AI is the foundation of a strong digital economy that will allow Canada to lead and prosper. We look forward to continuing our strategic knowledge exchange and true collaboration with the government to renew our national AI strategy and address Canada’s productivity crisis through AI Adoption.” – Angela Mondou, TECHNATION President and CEO
This AI announcement is especially timely as TECHNATION prepares to host our AI4Canada Summit in Ottawa on May 22. This full-day forum will provide access to global AI experts and bring government officials together with industry leaders to advance a synchronized plan to ensure Canada maintains its leadership position in AI in this highly competitive global economy.
As the Canadian association of the TECH7 (the Technology Sector Trade Associations of the G7 countries and the EU), TECHNATION looks forward to supporting the outcomes of the government’s investment in AI and working with the international community to advance AI globally.
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About TECHNATION
TECHNATION is the industry-government nexus for technology prosperity in Canada. As a member-driven, not-for-profit, TECHNATION unites Canada’s technology sector, governments, and communities to enable technology prosperity in Canada. TECHNATION champions technology prosperity by providing advocacy, professional development and networking opportunities across industry and governments at all levels; connecting Canadian scale-ups with global tech leaders; engaging the global supply chain; and filling the technology talent pipeline.
TECHNATION has served as the authoritative national voice of the $242 billion ICT industry for over 60 years. More than 45,000 Canadian ICT firms create and supply goods and services that contribute to a more productive, competitive, and innovative society. The ICT sector generates more than 717,590 jobs and invests $10.3 billion annually in R&D, more than any other private sector performer. TECHNATION was formerly the Information Technology Association of Canada (ITAC). For more information: www.technationcanada.ca
For more information:
Sarah Coombs
scoombs@technationcanada.ca
416-729-8550